Normalcy slowly resumes in Goma as M23 tightens its grip (Photos) #rwanda #RwOT

Days after the city's capture early this week, signs of normalcy are beginning to emerge, albeit cautiously, as the M23 continues to consolidate its control over the city.

A visit by IGIHE to Goma on Wednesday, January 28, revealed a stark contrast to the chaos of previous days. The streets, once emptied by fear and gunfire, are now seeing more activity, with residents tentatively returning to their daily routines.

Although business owners are eager to resume their work, many shops remain shuttered, a reminder of the economic uncertainty that still lingers.

For Mamouda, a local trader, the past week has been one of fear and disruption in Goma, the capital and largest city of North Kivu Province.

'On Sunday, it was impossible to step outside. The sound of gunfire was everywhere, even in my neighbourhood. It wasn't until Tuesday that people started to flee, and only then did things begin to calm down,' the trader shared.

Access to basic services such as water and electricity remains a challenge after being cut off by the Congolese government. Mamouda has been helping neighbours by offering power from his generator to charge phonesâ€"a crucial lifeline during a time of limited communication.

At the border, which had been a flashpoint of conflict, signs of a fragile peace are visible. M23 fighters have assumed control, and while their presence is evident, they appear to be engaging with the community more peacefully than the military forces they replaced.

Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma, a military spokesperson for M23, was seen walking through Goma's streets with his entourage, a moment of apparent normalcy as residents waved and clapped in support.

'The M23 are better than the FARDC,' said Jean Claude Etienne, a resident of Quartier Les Volcans. 'I can walk freely, carry my phone, and go about my business without fear. This wasn't possible before.'

Such sentiments are echoed by many who speak of the abusive behaviour they experienced under the government forces, with some alleging that FARDC soldiers would confiscate phones and other belongings.

In contrast, M23 fighters, according to locals, are seen as more disciplined and friendly. The group has been fighting against the systematic persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese in the larger eastern region of the DRC.

"They've treated us with respect," noted Darius, another resident. "We are hopeful that life will improve now."

Despite the changing dynamics, the conflict is far from over. The M23's grip on Goma remains firm, and while local businesses like Hotel Serena continue to operate, the future remains uncertain for many. For now, Goma's residents are cautiously optimistic, hoping that they will be able to rebuild their lives amid ongoing instability in the wider eastern Congo region.